Needle cytology is a quick, simple and cheap procedure where we aspirate cells from a tissue using a syringe and needle. The procedure usually requires no chemical restraint and is generally well tolerated by the animal

    The main reason it is done is to help identify lumps to help decide whether they should be removed or not

The cells that are removed are prepared on a slide with special stains and examined with a microscope. We are then able to say

1.     That we have a tumour which definitely needs to be removed or further tests should be done to determine if it has spread. Mast cell tumours are good examples of this.
2.     We can't exactly identify the type of cells as to whether they are benign or dangerous. Surgical removal is best in these cases or at the least close monitoring for changes
3. The lump is a benign( not harmful as won't spread) lump so it doesn't necessarily have to be removed